The Preference for Poly B Replacement for Insurance and Newly Purchased Houses in Edmonton

May 28, 2025

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or an existing one in the city of Edmonton, there is one unsuspecting problem that can cause you thousands of dollars in repairs and insurance woes: Poly B plumbing. Though it was a revolutionary material in the 1980s and 90s, polybutylene (Poly B) piping is now a red flag for insurance companies, home inspectors, and even plumbers themselves.


Here we will be addressing the significance of Poly B replacement, how it affects insurance policy coverage, and all the information homebuyers in Edmonton need to be aware of before signing the contract.


A plumber is working on a pipe in a building.

What Is Poly B Plumbing?


Poly B is a gray plastic water supply pipe installed in residential plumbing from 1978 until the mid-1990s. It was installed extensively because it is inexpensive and easy to install. It is now recognized that over a period of time, Poly B pipes will:


  • Crack and Split
  • Leak and cause water damage
  • Breakdown from chlorine
  • Have fittings that degrade over time


By the late 90's, Poly B had been phased out and lawsuits followed. The majority of insurance companies, home inspectors, and plumbing contractors now consider Poly B plumbing a liability.


Why Poly B Plumbing Is a Risk?


Although your Poly B system hasn't leaked yet, you can still be in danger. The houses constructed from 1978 to 1995 in Edmonton are particularly prone to having Poly B pipes. Because of the specific climate of the city (cold winter, dry indoor air, and hard water), Poly B pipes are more likely to fail.


Risks include:

  • Unexpected ruptures of pipes that cause expensive water damage
  • Mold caused by undetected water leaks
  • Voided home insurance claims when the Poly B pipes are not declared
  • Increased insurance charges or denials


Poly B and Home Insurance in Edmonton


The majority of the Edmonton insurance providers consider Poly B to be a high-risk plumbing system. Some will only provide minimum coverage, while others will:


  • Refuse coverage entirely
  • Require higher premiums
  • Ask for a full Poly B replacement before issuing or renewing a policy


If you are buying a house in Edmonton with Poly B plumbing, your ability to insure the property is in danger—unless you replace the pipes.


How Poly B Affects New Home Buyers


As part of the first-time home buying process, you want to have the home's plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber. During your home inspection or walkthrough ask:


  • Is the piping gray and plastic?
  • Are the fittings are plastic or copper?
  • Does there seem to be any evidence of corrosion, leakage, or repairs?


If you have Poly B, you should:


  • Negotiate the cost or have the vendor replace the pipes.
  • Offer substitution at the point of purchase
  • Discuss your options with your insurance company.


Advantages of Poly B Replacement


An upgrade to more modern copper or PEX piping brings long-term peace of mind. Some of the advantages are:


  • Improved home insurance eligibility
  • Reducing premiums
  • Increased home value and marketability
  • Elimination of leak risks and hidden water damage
  • Enhanced water supply and system operation


At Hermes Heating & Plumbing, we are experts in Poly B replacement throughout the city of Edmonton and surrounding region. Our professionals will replace outdated Poly B piping with quality plumbing that will be up to date for the current times.


How the Poly B Replacement Process Works


This is what you should expect from a Poly B replacement project:


1. Inspection and Estimation


We assess your home plumbing system and provide you with a total estimate. We also identify any access issues (walls, floors, ceilings) that will influence installation.


2. Pipe replacement


Our experienced plumbers replace the old Poly B pipes with new copper or PEX pipes. We go the extra step to avoid damaging the drywall and other finishes.


3. Restoration


We patch and make good damaged portions and upgrade your system to current code. We also provide documentation for your insurance agent or your realtor.


How to Identify If You Have Poly B Plumbing


Following are some tips that will help you identify Poly B in your home:


  • Poly B is typically light gray.
  • Labels: Look for labels like "PB2110" on the pipes.
  • Whereabouts: Under sinks, near your water heater, and in your basement.


Still unsure? Schedule a Poly B test in Edmonton with Hermes Heating & Plumbing. We will provide you with a clear answer and your next step.


Why Hermes Heating & Plumbing?


We’re Edmonton’s leading name in Poly B replacement. Here’s why residents count on us:


  • Fully covered and certified
  • Over 20 years of plumbing experience in the Edmonton area
  • Friendly professional technicians
  • Clear prices and no extra fees
  • Warranty-backed work


Whether you're remodeling your current home or buying a new one, we can help you protect your investment.


Final Considerations for Prospective Homebuyers


Buying a house in Edmonton is a thrill, but do not forget the conditions behind the walls. Poly B plumbing might look like a minor glitch, yet it can lead to massive problems. Seize the initiative with an investment in a professional plumbing inspection and, if necessary, a Poly B replacement. It will make your house safer, more valuable, and insurable—and save you monumental headaches down the road.


Book Your Poly B Replacement Today


If you're ready to upgrade your home’s plumbing or need an expert opinion before purchasing a home, contact Hermes Heating & Plumbing today.


🌐 Visit us at: https://www.hermesplumbing.ca/contact


Let Edmonton’s Poly B replacement experts give you peace of mind—before the leaks start.

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